Filmmaker James L. Brooks makes his return to directing with the film Ella McCay, set to be released in theaters on December 12, 2023. Known for his influential work in television and film, including iconic projects like The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Simpsons, Brooks has crafted a story that examines personal ambition and familial challenges within a political framework.
The film stars Emma Mackey as Ella, a 34-year-old lieutenant governor of an unnamed state in 2008. As she stands on the brink of becoming governor, her journey is complicated by her husband, Ryan (played by Jack Lowden), her agoraphobic brother, Casey (played by Spike Fearn), and her father, Eddie (played by Woody Harrelson). The narrative follows Ella over several days, capturing her struggles with governance while dealing with the distractions posed by her family, all set against the backdrop of political aspirations.
Brooks, who both wrote and directed the film, presents a storyline that at times lacks coherence. The initial focus on Ella’s personal and professional dilemmas begins to meander into subplots that do not enhance the main narrative. The characters of Casey and Eddie, though pivotal to Ella’s life, receive limited screen time, which diminishes their impact. Additionally, the subplot involving Casey’s attempts to rekindle a romance with his girlfriend, Susan (portrayed by Ayo Edebiri), further diverts from the central storyline.
The political elements of Ella McCay also struggle to find clarity. While it is suggested that both Ella and Governor Bill (played by Albert Brooks) lean towards Democratic ideologies, particularly through Ella’s advocacy for a program aiding mothers, the film does not clearly articulate her political goals. This obscurity may leave viewers confused about the film’s stance on contemporary issues, failing to resonate with current political discourse.
Despite these narrative shortcomings, the performances of Mackey and Jamie Lee Curtis provide a bright spot in the film. Mackey, recognized for her role in Sex Education, imbues Ella with a confident charm, keeping the character relatable even in less engaging moments. Curtis, known for her dynamic roles, offers a grounded presence as Ella’s supportive aunt, creating a compelling dynamic that elevates their scenes together.
Brooks appears to invest more effort in developing female characters, with Julie Kavner delivering some of the film’s comedic relief as Ella’s assistant, despite serving as an unnecessary narrator. Conversely, the male characters, including Harrelson’s Eddie and Fearn’s Casey, lack sufficient depth to leave a lasting impression.
While James L. Brooks has an extensive and celebrated career, Ella McCay does not reach the heights of his previous works. Nevertheless, it does succeed in showcasing Mackey’s talent, positioning her as a capable lead who can navigate and enhance a film that might otherwise struggle to hold audience interest. As the film prepares for its release, it remains to be seen how it will be received by critics and audiences alike.
